EARLY LITERACY SPECIALIST

Job Title

Job Description

Qualifications: 1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. 2. Or a Master's degree in early literacy, literacy, reading, or another related field 3. Valid New Jersey Standard Instructional Certificate in preschool through grade three or elementary school 4. New Jersey Early Literacy Specialist Endorsement (or eligibility required). 5. Minimum of three (3) years of successful teaching experience, preferably in PreK3. 6. Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based early literacy instruction (aligned to the Science of Reading). 7. Strong knowledge of foundational literacy skills, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. 8. Experience analyzing student data and implementing targeted interventions. 9. Experience working with diverse learners, including multilingual learners and students with disabilities. 10. Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and coaching skills. 11. Preferred: Master's degree in Literacy, Reading, Curriculum & Instruction, or related field. 12. Possession of a valid New Jersey driver's license (if required for travel between sites). 13. Two letters of recommendation, including one from a current supervisor or principal.

Duties/Responsibilities

Instruction & Intervention

1. Provide direct, research-based literacy instruction to students in PreK3, with a focus on Tier II and Tier III interventions.

2. Implement structured literacy practices aligned with state mandates and district curriculum.

3. Support the development of foundational literacy skills through explicit, systematic instruction.

4. Use diagnostic, formative, and summative assessment data to design and adjust interventions.

5. Maintain flexible student groupings based on ongoing progress monitoring.

Coaching & Professional Learning

1. Serve as a literacy leader by coaching teachers on effective early literacy practices.

2. Model lessons and co-teach to support implementation of high-quality instruction.

3. Provide job-embedded professional development aligned to district and state literacy initiatives.

4. Support teachers in differentiating instruction to meet the needs of all learners.

Data & Assessment

1. Analyze student achievement data to identify trends, gaps, and targeted instructional needs.

2. Support administration and interpretation of literacy screeners and assessments.

3. Collaborate with school teams to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.

4. Maintain accurate records of student performance and intervention outcomes.

Collaboration & Communication

1. Participate in I&RS/MTSS meetings and contribute to data-driven decision-making.

2. Collaborate with classroom teachers, administrators, and support staff to ensure alignment of literacy instruction.

3. Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and strategies to support literacy at home.

Curriculum & Program Development

1. Support the implementation and refinement of district early literacy curriculum and resources.

2. Assist in developing instructional materials and literacy supports aligned to grade-level standards.

3. Ensure literacy instruction reflects culturally responsive and inclusive practices.

Professional Responsibilities

1. Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

2. Stay current with research and best practices in early literacy instruction.

3. Perform other duties consistent with contractual terms and as assigned by administration.

Evaluation: Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with New Jersey state law and Board of Education policy on evaluation of certified staff.

Terms of Employment: WEA Staff, Ten (10) month position.

Salary Range: $61,602.00 - $101,511.00

Benefits Package Includes: Medical, Prescription, and dental insurance Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Optional disability insurance (Aflac, Prudential, Hartford) Pre-Tax deduction options Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Medical/Rx waiver options NJ Pension System Enrollment Voluntary 304(b) Plan Accumulating Sick Days, Personal Days, and/or Vacation Days